7 Navigational Matters
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Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - Circulars - Maritime Safety Committee - MSC.1/Circular.1329 – Guidelines for Uniform Operating Limitations of High-Speed Craft – (11 June 2009) - Annex – Guidelines for Uniform Operating Limitations of High-Speed Craft - 7 Navigational Matters

7 Navigational Matters

  7.1 Casualties to high-speed craft have illustrated that there are number of navigational circumstances that need to be taken into account when establishing the operating limitations under the Permit to Operate. These include:

  • .1 adequacy of fixed aids to navigation on the route;

  • .2 night vision with regard to unlit obstacles; and

  • .3 other restricted visibility.

  7.2 Administrations should note that paragraph 3.1.2 of annex 9 of the Code explicitly states that “worst intended conditions, referred to in 1.4.57 of this Code, are those in which it shall be possible to maintain safe cruise without exceptional piloting skill. However, operations at all headings relative to the wind and sea may not be possible”. This provision can be taken into account by Administrations when setting operating limitations in relation to the craft’s course-keeping and ability to follow alternative courses in worsening weather and sea conditions.

  7.3 Minimum safe water depth may relate to local environmental regulations or hazards to other craft, persons and property in the operational area in addition to navigational safety. For example, Administrations may require investigation of wash waves generated by the craft that are hazardous to nearby small craft and persons on the shoreline, investigation of environmental hazards due to erosion, and any restrictions on craft speed on the specific route in relation to water depthfootnote in order to avoid these hazards should be stipulated in the Permit to Operate.

  7.4 Where a route is considered to be especially vulnerable to grounding or stranding, Administrations may require a risk assessment of these hazards, considering the applicability of, for example:

  • .1 minimum safety margins around particular hazards on the route;

  • .2 reduced speed during critical sections of the route; or

  • .3 requiring two navigators in the operating compartment during critical sections of the route.

Parent topic: Annex – Guidelines for Uniform Operating Limitations of High-Speed Craft
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